Gov. Yahaya affirms commitment to grassroots sports development
Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe state has restated his administration’s commitment to grassroots sports development.
Mr Yahaya stated this in Gombe on Saturday while inaugurating the 2024 football season and presentation of club licences ahead of the Nationwide League One (NLO) football competition.
He said that sports have been prioritised by his administration as a tool to empower youths, and divert their attention from vices that could create security challenges.
According to him, his administration is dedicated to working tirelessly to harnessing the potential in sports to the benefits of the citizens.
He was represented by the commissioner for youth and sports development, Inuwa Ibrahim.
Mr Yahaya said his administration was doing a lot to put the state on the map through sports development.
“What we are witnessing today is a show of our commitment to sports development at the grassroots.
“ We have paid and secured licences for all the 13 NLO Football clubs here and we will continue to do more.
“Today, Gombe is known for its vast talents in sports and that’s why we have two clubs in the NPFL.
“As part of efforts to continue to support this initiative of sports development, soon we will be organising a football competition that will involve clubs from ward up to state levels,” he said.
He urged the youths to be good ambassadors of the state whenever they are on the pitch.
The governor also warned them against acts that could dent the image of the state.
“Avoid unruly behaviours, do not be violent and stay away from using drugs to enhance your performance.
“Doping is a serious offence in sports and it has dire consequences, so avoid it and train well to make your state proud,” he said.
On his part, Hashimu Ibrahim, the chairman, Gombe state chapter of the NLO Football Clubs Forum, said Mr Yahaya had shown his love for grassroots sports by paying to secure licenses for the clubs.
Mr Ibrahim enjoined the state government to continue to support Gombe United and Doma United who are currently playing in the NPFL.
(NAN)
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